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JUPITER, Fla. -- Not even five years after he was a 13th round draft pick who signed for about $1,000 out of TCU, Matt Carpenter is going to be a Cardinal for a long time.

The Cards announced the signing of their All-Star infielder to a six year deal, with an option for a seventh season.

"Matt has asserted himself as a leader in the Cardinals clubhouse with his dedication and work ethic serving as a fine example to everyone," GM John Mozeliak said. "His commitment to switching to a new position last season (second base), resulting in an All-Star season and Silver Slugger Award, proved once again what kind of person and player Matt is."

"This is a special day, for sure. It's something I'm very honored and privileged to be a part of. I'm looking forward to the next six years," Carpenter said.

Mozeliak said the Cardinals first initiated talks about a contract extension last August. That's not even before Carpenter was finished playing his first full season as an everyday player.

"It's humbling to know they have that kind of faith in me," Carpenter said. "All the confidence they have in making this kind of investment, I'm extremely honored to be here.

"I still look at it the same way. I'm so blessed to put on this uniform and I take that responsibility very seriously. The fact they've done this for me, I'm just forever grateful," Carpenter said.

The TCU alum hit .318 a season ago while leading the majors in runs scored (126), hits (199), doubles (55) and multi-hit games (63).